This musical adaptation, with most of the songs written by local actors Arne Christiansen and Ole Kittleson (book by Vera Morris), is being put on by J*Company in La Jolla. Joey Landwehr, J*Company’s new artistic director, makes his directorial debut at the theatre with this show – a show that features an old story with new wrinkles and added characters. And the director demonstrates a great feel for the tale’s potential, expertly using beautiful backdrops that can be ominous or serene (depending on the lighting and sound effects) and an enthusiastic cast of actors age thirteen and under.

Ten-year-old Hannah Prater clearly delights in the title role, infusing the mischievous dwarf with enormous personality and stage presence as he greedily weaves his web, desiring nothing less than control over the mortal world.

Those mortals include Danielle Gardener as the sweet Laura, the miller’s daughter who falls for a prince and then gets handed a chance to marry him thanks to the “helpful” Rumpelstiltskin. Daniel Myers is the young, flirty, charming prince who is eager to marry Laura regardless of the gold, and who just hopes momma doesn’t cut off Laura’s head should she fail to produce the magical gold.

That ruthlessly pragmatic momma, Queen Prima Donna, is played by the hilarious Ashley Twomey who uses her voice, comedic skills, and regal countenance to tremendous effect. The other great comedian in the show is the mysterious witch in the wood Griselda who stirs up the pot by encouraging Rumpelstiltskin on his quest. Abbi Hirschfeld uses her posture and hysterical vocalizations (she sounds like Carol Kane) to make the witch an unforgettable character.

Performed May 12-21, 2006.

Rob Hopper
National Youth Theatre

Charlotte: